1 What is Toner?
Toner, also known as a skin-toning solution or skin balancer, is a liquid that has a water-like consistency and is used after cleansing to remove any remaining dirt, dead skin cells, and excess oil that your cleanser might have missed. It also helps prepare your skin to better absorb the following skincare products in your routine.
In addition to balancing your skin, toner helps minimize the appearance of pores, prevents acne breakouts, and protects your skin from environmental stressors.
2 What are the Benefits of Toner?
Here are some of the most common benefits of using toner:
– Deep Cleansing, Especially in Summer: Toner helps remove dirt and excess sebum from your pores. During the summer, when your skin produces more oil, toner will help keep your skin clean and refreshed.
– Moisturizing: Even in the summer, when your skin is oilier, it’s important to moisturize. Don’t make the mistake of skipping this step! In fact, it’s crucial to pay extra attention to hydration to maintain your skin’s pH balance and promote a soft, supple complexion.
– Important Step for Subsequent Skincare: Toner is a critical step after cleansing. If your skin is not properly cleansed and prepped, it can become a breeding ground for acne. Toner enhances the effectiveness of your subsequent skincare products.
– Brightening: Some toners contain ingredients like Vitamin C and E, rice, and aloe vera, which help improve skin tone and brighten your complexion.
– Acne Treatment: Certain toners contain ingredients such as AHA and BHA, which help prevent bacterial growth, exfoliate the skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent acne breakouts.
3 Popular Toners on the Market
Muji Light Toning Moisture: This Japanese product is Muji’s bestseller and a favorite among women. It offers superior hydration, deep cleansing, and the removal of excess sebum and impurities. It typically costs 165,000đ – 300,000đ.
Thayers Witch Hazel: This American brand offers a toner that is alcohol-free and perfect for dry and sensitive skin. It comes in a variety of fragrances to suit different skin types. The price range is typically 180,000 – 200,000đ.
Simple Soothing Facial Toner: This UK-made dermocosmetic product is approved by dermatologists and is ideal for sensitive skin. It’s Simple’s top-selling toner, priced at around 130,000đ – 150,000đ.
Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner: This Korean product contains AHA, BHA, and is ideal for acne-prone skin. Its main ingredients are natural, and it typically costs 190,000 – 200,000đ.
Mamonde Rose Water Toner: This Korean product is made with natural floral ingredients and is a favorite among women for its gentle and soothing properties. It typically costs 180,000đ – 200,000.
Dickinson’s Original Witch Hazel Toner: This American-made toner provides intense hydration and exceptional cleansing. It won the Instyle Best Beauty award in 2014 and 2015. It typically costs 200,000 – 225,000đ.
Murad Hydrating Toner: This toner is made with natural ingredients and provides superior hydration, preventing dry and flaky skin. It helps minimize the appearance of pores and improves skin texture. It’s typically priced at 819,000đ – 900,000đ.
4 Choosing the Right Toner for Your Skin Type
The type of toner you choose depends on your skin type:
Toner for Acne-Prone Skin
Acne is often caused by excess sebum, so look for a toner that controls oil production and hydrates your skin. Choose a product with salicylic acid under 2%, as this ingredient helps tighten pores and prevent acne breakouts.
Recommended toners for acne-prone skin include NFC Barrier Cica Bubble Toner (around 480,000đ – 500,000đ), Innisfree Green Tea Fresh Skin (350,000đ – 370,000đ), The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner (300,000đ – 320,000đ), La Roche-Posay Effaclar Lotion Astringent (350,000đ – 370,000đ), and aha-bha-pha 30 days miracle toner (250,000đ – 370,000đ), among others.
Toner for Oily Skin and Large Pores
Oily skin and large pores can lead to acne breakouts. Look for toners that contain alcohol to help control excess oil. However, prolonged and excessive use of alcohol-based toners can dry out your skin and strip it of its natural oils.
It’s advisable to consult a dermatologist for guidance. Recommended toners for oily skin and large pores include Thayers (200,000đ – 250,000đ), Hada Labo (170,000đ – 200,000đ), and Mamonde Rose Water (230,000đ – 250,000đ), among others.
Toner for Dry Skin
For dry skin, avoid toners that contain alcohol, as they can further dry out your skin. Instead, opt for hydrating toners that provide intense moisture to soften your skin.
Recommended products include The Face Shop Rice Ceramide Moisture Toner (200,000đ – 300,000đ) and Lancome Tonique Confort (850,000đ – 950,000đ), among others.
Toner for Combination and Normal Skin
Combination and normal skin types don’t typically experience excessive oiliness or dryness. You can choose your toner based on the season. In the summer, opt for an alcohol-based toner to deep cleanse your pores and prevent acne breakouts. In the winter, choose a hydrating toner to provide moisture and prevent flaking.
5 How to Use Toner Effectively
Here are three simple steps to using toner effectively:
Step 1: After removing your makeup and cleansing your face, pour a small amount of toner onto a cotton pad. You can also apply toner directly to your skin, but using a cotton pad ensures even application. Alternatively, you can pour the toner into a spray bottle and spritz it all over your face, gently patting it into your skin.
Step 2: After applying toner to your face, wait 3 to 4 minutes to allow the product to absorb into your skin.
Step 3: Follow up with a serum and moisturizer to enhance the effectiveness of your skincare routine and promote a youthful, radiant complexion.
6 Important Considerations When Using Toner
Avoid Overusing Toner: Some toners contain alcohol, which can dry out your skin and strip it of its natural moisture, leading to premature aging.
Be Gentle: When applying toner to your face, use gentle motions to avoid irritating or scratching your skin. Combine toner application with light massage or use a facial massage device to enhance product absorption.
Use a Spray Toner: Toners in spray bottles allow you to control the amount of product dispensed and